Theatre / Review
Review: Kinky Boots, Bristol Hippodrome
With a scattering of sequins, a kick of heels and a whole load of sass, Kinky Boots met with a standing ovation at Bristol Hippodrome on Tuesday.
Inspired by true events, the multi-award-winning musical takes us from a struggling men’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan in an expertly choreographed and flawlessly performed performance that lifts the heart and leaves you wanting more.
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Charlie Price, played by Joel Harper-Jackson, doesn’t really know what he wants from life and seems content to follow his girlfriend’s dream of moving to the bright lights of London. But when his father suddenly dies, it falls to Charlie to bring Price & Son shoe factory back from the brink of closure.
In a vague attempt to be heroic, he falls into the path of the dazzling Lola (Kayi Ushe) – a fabulous drag queen whose quest for a stiletto that can bear her weight sparks the seed of a new idea that will see the traditional shoe factory take a very different direction.
Lola is undoubtedly the very deserving star of the show: larger than life, kinky and devilishly funny, hers is a captivating performance throughout – from the slinky moves to the sassy one-line put downs.
In a role that could easily become rather one-dimensional, Ushe does an incredible job of giving Lola real heart and depth, showing the vulnerability of a man who was rejected by his own father and continues to face adversity in a world scared of difference.
With direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde, Hairspray) and music and lyrics by none other than Cyndi Lauper, the musical brings Harvey Fierstein’s book to life; a book that – with the glamorous drag costumes contrasting perfectly with the drab factory setting – was always meant for the big stage.
The set design is a masterpiece and the big dance scenes a joy to watch – the factory conveyor belts lending themselves perfectly to a comically-choreographed piece.
There are times when the musical could benefit from sacrificing a couple of long, slow songs in order to develop characters’ storylines further. Lola’s brief chance to reunite with her father, after performing at his home in Clacton, could have been a truly poignant moment, but feels a bit, um, shoehorned in.
The blossoming romance between Charlie and Lauren (Paula Lane) allows for a couple of winning routines from Lane, but as a plot, feels rather flimsy. Audiences could also be forgiven for being left a bit confused about what a Northampton accent sounds like.
Ultimately though, this is a big stage musical with a big stage presence that captures imaginations and hearts all round.
The drag queens, with their dazzling attire, improbable high kicks and enviable ability to cavort effortlessly in stilettos, steal the final scene, which also brings out the finest performance from Harper-Jackson, comically brilliant in his thigh high kinky boots and suit top.
The ultimate feelgood show, oozing with glamour, a worthwhile message about acceptance – and added drag. What’s not to love?
Kinky Boots continues at the Hippodrome until Saturday, March 9. For more information and tickets, visit: www.beta.atgtickets.com/show/kinky-boots/bristol-hippodrome
Photos by Helen Maybanks
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